Two connection types, one work goal
An API describes requests software can make to another system: search listings, retrieve a contact, or create a task, for example. Your AI needs a supported way to make those requests, with the correct inputs and authentication.
MCP provides a common connection standard for AI applications and external systems. A compatible MCP server can expose tools and context to a supporting AI client. The server may use a vendor API underneath; the existence of that API alone does not make a product a native MCP integration.
What changes for you
| Check | API connection | MCP connection |
|---|---|---|
| Your AI client | Must support authenticated API tools or an adapter | Must support the server’s MCP setup |
| Documentation | Endpoints, authentication, fields, and limits | Server setup, available tools, authentication, and limits |
| Account access | Still required | Still required |
| Approval for actions | Define before enabling writes | Define before enabling writes |
A property research example
Suppose you want a property briefing. With an API connection, your AI may call authorized listing endpoints and then summarize the returned facts. With MCP, it may use a property-search tool exposed by a compatible server. In both cases, the important questions are what records it can retrieve, how current they are, and what it is allowed to do with them.
A CRM example
For follow-up, start by reading a known contact and its current tasks. Then ask for proposed changes. Move to write access only after you have checked record matching, required fields, and the review process. A convenient connection should not make an incorrect contact update easier to miss.
Before connecting anything
- Check that your exact AI client supports the vendor’s documented connection.
- Confirm that your plan and credentials permit the required operations.
- Use the narrowest permissions that support the task.
- Test on a small, authorized example and inspect the result.
- Set clear rules for messages, spending, publishing, and record changes.
How to use the directory labels
API means a documented programmatic interface is available. MCP means an MCP option is documented as well. The label is a starting point for setup research, rather than a promise that every tool works in every AI client. Open the tool guide for access requirements and official documentation.
Sources and review notes
Product information and starting prices checked October 17, 2026. These guides use documented product information and suggested workflows. We have not tested these connections for the directory. Farmhand's supplied directory rate is $29/mo. Relay's supplied directory rate is $29/mo. Provider plans, coverage, and permissions can change.